How to Get Around in Valencia Without a Car?
Getting around Valencia without a car is not only easy but also one of the best ways to truly experience the city. Valencia is compact, well-connected, and designed for pedestrians and cyclists. With an efficient public transport system, extensive bike lanes, and beautiful walkable streets, you can comfortably explore almost every corner of the city without needing to drive.
Below is an in-depth guide on the best transportation options in Valencia for visitors who prefer to travel car-free.
1. Walking – The Best Way to Explore the City Center
Valencia is one of Spain’s most walkable cities. Most of its main attractions — from the Old Town (Ciutat Vella) to the City of Arts and Sciences — are within a reasonable walking distance or connected through scenic routes.
Why it’s great:
- The city center is flat and pedestrian-friendly.
- Many attractions are close together, especially in Ciutat Vella.
- Walking lets you discover hidden plazas, cafes, and local life.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes — cobblestone streets in the old town can be uneven.
- Summer temperatures can be hot, so walk early in the morning or late afternoon.
- The Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia) is a wonderful pedestrian path that stretches across the city — perfect for a relaxing walk between landmarks.
2. Metro Valencia – Fast and Efficient Public Transport
Valencia’s metro system is modern, safe, and efficient, covering most of the city and even reaching the airport and nearby beaches.
Key features:
- Six metro lines and four tram lines connect central Valencia with suburbs, the airport, and coastal areas.
- The Metrovalencia also links to the beach via tram lines 4 and 6.
Useful routes:
- Line 3 and Line 5: Connect the city center with Valencia Airport (VLC).
- Line 10: Runs from the city center to the City of Arts and Sciences and nearby neighborhoods.
- Tram Lines 4 & 6: Great for reaching Malvarrosa Beach and El Cabanyal.
Tickets and passes:
- Single ticket: Around €1.50–€2.
- SUMA travel cards can be used on the metro, bus, and tram for multiple journeys.
- A SUMA 10 card gives 10 trips for about €8–€10 (depending on the zone).
Why it’s great:
Affordable, air-conditioned, and one of the quickest ways to move across the city.
3. EMT Buses – Reliable and Extensive Coverage
Valencia’s EMT (Empresa Municipal de Transportes) bus network covers the entire city and operates frequently. It’s a convenient option to reach places that the metro doesn’t directly serve.
Key details:
- Buses run from early morning until midnight, with some night routes (labeled “N”) available.
- Tickets can be bought from the driver (€1.50) or via the EMTicket app.
- SUMA cards are also valid for bus travel.
Popular routes:
- Route 35: From the city center to the City of Arts and Sciences and the Oceanogràfic.
- Route 25: Connects the city to Albufera Natural Park — perfect for a day trip to El Palmar.
Why it’s great:
Buses are reliable, air-conditioned, and allow you to enjoy the city views while you travel.
4. Trams – Perfect for Beach and Suburban Areas
Valencia’s tram system connects the metro network with areas that are slightly farther out, such as the beaches and university district.
Why it’s useful:
- The trams run along scenic routes, especially toward the Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal beaches.
- Ideal for travelers staying near the coast or outside the city center.
Tip:
Tram tickets are the same as metro tickets (use the SUMA card).
5. Biking – One of the Best Ways to See Valencia
Valencia is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Spain, with over 150 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes and flat terrain. Cycling is safe, easy, and enjoyable, especially through parks and along the coast.
Options for biking:
- Valenbisi: Valencia’s public bike-sharing system with over 275 stations across the city. You can rent bikes using a short-term pass (available at kiosks or online).
- Private rentals: Many shops offer hourly or daily bike rentals, often including helmets and maps.
Best bike routes:
- Turia Gardens: A scenic ride through the city’s green corridor.
- City of Arts and Sciences to the beach: A smooth, picturesque route connecting modern architecture with the sea.
- El Cabanyal District: Ride through colorful seaside streets full of charm.
Why it’s great:
Eco-friendly, affordable, and lets you explore at your own pace.
6. Electric Scooters and E-Bikes
Valencia has embraced modern, eco-friendly transport options like electric scooters (patinetes) and e-bikes, available for rent throughout the city.
Providers:
Companies like Lime, Bird, and Cooltra offer app-based rentals.
Where to ride:
- On bike lanes and wide streets.
- Along the Turia Gardens or toward the City of Arts and Sciences.
Why it’s great:
Fast, fun, and perfect for short trips or covering longer distances without effort.
7. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps
Taxis are readily available throughout Valencia and are safe, metered, and fairly priced.
Approximate fares:
- City center to the beach: €8–€12.
- City center to the airport: €20–€25.
Ride-sharing options:
Apps like Uber, Bolt, and Cabify operate in Valencia and can sometimes be cheaper than regular taxis.
Why it’s great:
Convenient for late-night travel or when carrying luggage.
8. Day Trips Without a Car
Even without driving, you can explore destinations around Valencia using public transport.
Popular car-free day trips:
- Albufera Natural Park: Take EMT bus Route 25 directly to El Palmar.
- Sagunto: Visit the historic castle and Roman theatre (reachable by train from Valencia Nord Station).
- Xàtiva: A scenic medieval town with a castle, just one hour by train.
9. Valencia Tourist Card – Best for Visitors
If you plan to use public transport often, the Valencia Tourist Card is a great deal.
Includes:
- Unlimited travel on metro, bus, and tram within zones A and B.
- Free entry to public museums and monuments.
- Discounts at restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Available durations:
24, 48, or 72 hours.
Why it’s great:
Convenient, affordable, and ideal for tourists staying a few days.
Summary: The Best Car-Free Ways to Explore Valencia
| Mode of Transport | Best For | Why Choose It |
| --------------------- | -------------------------- | ---------------------- |
| Walking | Old Town, City Center | Free, scenic, and easy |
| Metro | Long distances, airport | Fast and efficient |
| Bus | Reaching all neighborhoods | Extensive network |
| Tram | Beach and coastal areas | Scenic and simple |
| Bicycle | Parks and coast | Eco-friendly and fun |
| Scooter / E-bike | Short urban trips | Fast and flexible |
| Taxi / Ride-share | Night or luggage | Convenient and safe |
Final Thoughts
You can easily experience all of Valencia without ever needing a car. The city’s compact layout, excellent public transport, and network of bike lanes make it one of the most accessible destinations in Spain for travelers on foot, bike, or public transit.
Whether you’re wandering through the Old Town, cycling along the Turia Gardens, or hopping on a tram to the beach, getting around Valencia is not just convenient — it’s part of the experience.
